McLean Park
Rating
Price
Free
Duration
2-3 hours
Best Ages
All ages
About
McLean Park is North Myrtle Beach's premier free outdoor destination — a fully-featured city park at 93 Oak Dr with the facilities and reputation to back it up. With 1,189 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it's among the most reviewed free attractions in the northern Grand Strand, reflecting years of genuine community appreciation.
The park's comprehensive facility mix sets it apart from standard playground parks. Tennis courts bring an active older-kid and adult option that most parks don't offer. Dedicated athletic fields accommodate soccer, frisbee, and informal field sports.
Picnic grounds with pavilions support full family gatherings rather than just casual visits. And the playground component gives younger kids their own dedicated space within the larger park.
For families spending a full week in North Myrtle Beach, McLean Park works as the free half-day alternative to paid beach activities. Tennis in the morning, playground and picnic mid-day, and open field time in the late afternoon creates a structured park day that costs nothing.
The 6AM-9PM operating window is notably broad. Early morning arrivals before 8AM get the park largely to themselves and avoid the worst of South Carolina's summer heat. The park connects to the McLean Park playground (listed separately) which focuses specifically on children's play equipment.
Managed by North Myrtle Beach city parks — check parks.nmb.us for any organized events, sport leagues, or seasonal programming that might align with your visit dates.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Available
Kid Meals
Not Available
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Early morning before the heat peaks — the park opens at 6AM
Wait Times
No wait — free public park
Nearby Food
North Myrtle Beach's Oak Dr area and Hwy 17 N have restaurants nearby. The park itself is ideal for a packed picnic.
Why Kids Love It
McLean Park is North Myrtle Beach's flagship community park — a substantial multi-facility destination with 1,189 reviews at 4. 6 stars that reflects sustained community love over time. The park includes tennis courts, athletic fields, picnic grounds, playground areas, and enough open space for kids to run freely for hours.
For families staying in North Myrtle Beach who want a full free outdoor day, McLean Park is the answer.
What Parents Say
“Free parking and it's shaded and public bathrooms which is always a plus with little ones around!!”
From Reddit Parents
“One of the best park style courses in the country by udisc rating For NJ, the closest we have is The Grove at Thompson Grove Park - Manalapan NJ.”
Pro Tips from Parents
- The park has dedicated tennis courts — bring rackets for an older-kid activity option.
- Athletic fields accommodate informal soccer, frisbee, and other open field games.
- Open 6AM-9PM daily — early morning visits beat the heat.
- Picnic pavilions are available — bring a full spread for a family cookout atmosphere.
- The playground component is separate from the sports facilities — the park is large enough to have distinct zones.
What to Bring
- Picnic supplies and cooler
- Tennis rackets and balls
- Soccer ball or frisbee
- Water and sunscreen
- Sports cleats for field games
Cost Info
Free Admission
Admission Prices
- Adult
- free
Tips to Save
- Completely free North Myrtle Beach city park.
- Pack a full picnic and make it a morning — the tennis courts, playground, and picnic areas together are a full family day.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 6AM-9PM
- Monday
- 6AM-9PM
- Sunday
- 6AM-9PM
- Tuesday
- 6AM-9PM
- Saturday
- 6AM-9PM
- Thursday
- 6AM-9PM
- Wednesday
- 6AM-9PM